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The prestigious French newspaper Les Echos, one of Europe's most influential business and economic publications, has dedicated a feature in its latest issue to Armenia's wine industry. The publication presents Armenia as one of the world's oldest winemaking civilizations, now experiencing a remarkable renaissance. Entitled "Arménie, la vigne pour patrie"("Armenia, the Vine as Homeland"), the article explores the country's millennia-old winemaking heritage, its modern revival, and the leading companies and professionals shaping the future of Armenian wine.

The publication delivers a powerful message to its international readership:

"Its first vineyards are undoubtedly the oldest in the world. After suffering for a long time under Soviet rule, they are being reborn thanks to the efforts of local entrepreneurs and the Armenian diaspora."

The Renaissance of Armenian Wine: From a National Vision to International Recognition

Armenian winemaking and wine culture are steadily reclaiming their place on the global wine map.

According to the article, the remarkable growth of Armenia's wine industry has been driven by several key factors: private investment, the active involvement of the Armenian diaspora, the application of international expertise, and the growing global appreciation of Armenia's indigenous grape varieties.

Les Echos also devotes special attention to Armenia Wine, describing it as one of the country's leading producers.

As the publication notes:

"The country's leading producer, with 8 million bottles sold each year."

Vahagn Mkrtchyan: "We Started from Scratch"

The feature includes an interview with Vahagn Mkrtchyan, co-founder of Armenia Wine, revealing the philosophy behind the company's creation.

"We started from scratch, and I believe we have come a long way."

Explaining why the founders chose winemaking, he says:

"When my co-founder Vardges Vardanyan and I asked ourselves how we could contribute to Armenia, wine became the obvious choice because we have a long and rich history in this field."

He also emphasizes the personal commitment behind the project:

"Vardges and I never wanted to leave our country."

Today, this philosophy remains one of the foundations of the company's development, making Armenian wine not merely a product but also a powerful expression of the country's history, identity, and culture.

Why Jean-Baptiste Soula Was Invited to Join Armenia Wine

The article also focuses on French winemaker Jean-Baptiste Soula, who has been collaborating with Armenia Wine since 2009.

Recalling that decision, Vahagn Mkrtchyan explains:

"We needed a specialist who could train our team and help us move beyond the legacy of the Soviet era."

Today, Soula is widely regarded as one of the leading consultants shaping the development of modern Armenian winemaking.

Jean-Baptiste Soula: "A New Story Is Being Written in Armenia"

Speaking about his experience in Armenia, Soula says:

"In Armenia, I take great pleasure in passing on what I know, even if I sometimes have to repeat myself."

Reflecting on his work with local growers, he adds:

"Once trust is established, you become part of the family."

According to Soula, Armenia's greatest strength lies in its authenticity rather than in trying to imitate others.

"For me, the important thing is to produce the best Armenian wine—one that can compete internationally."

Looking toward the future, he emphasizes:

"A new story is being written. We want to tell it to the world, and the best way to do that is through our indigenous grape varieties."

He also highlights the country's remarkable viticultural diversity:

"Armenia has 40 indigenous grape varieties. The principal ones are Areni for red wines, and Kangun and Voskehat for whites."

The Les Echos Week-End feature is further evidence that Armenian winemaking is attracting increasing attention from the international wine community. The renowned French publication presents Armenia not only as one of the world's oldest centers of winemaking but also as a country confidently building a new chapter of international success.